The ultimate owners guide to septic tanks

Septic tanks are an eco-friendly way to treat your wastewater – but only if they are looked after properly.

In this ultimate owners guide, we’ll answer some of your most frequently asked questions about septic tanks to ensure you’re making the most out of yours.

Topics will include laws and regulations you need to know, how septic tanks work, what maintenance checks you should be performing, and much more. So let’s begin.

How do septic tanks work?

The purpose of a septic tank is to take your site’s wastewater from toilets, washing machines, sinks and other sources of water, and to channel it to the tank for processing.

Once in the tank, solid matter will settle out of the wastewater and drop to the bottom to form a sludge. It’s this solid sludge that needs to be emptied at least once a year by a professional company. Bacteria will break down harmful substances in the tank.

With the solids at the bottom, the liquid will move out of the tank and into the surrounding drainage field, also known as a soakaway. It’s here that bacteria will clean the wastewater. If the water is dense in oils and fats, these substances may travel to the surface of the soakaway, and this layer will also need to be removed by a specialist.

What are the septic tank laws?

Because septic tanks are standalone containers that process wastewater and sewage, it is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain their quality and function. Neglecting to take care of a septic tank can result in it polluting the wider environment and possibly lead to it becoming a public health risk, which you will be responsible for.

There are several pieces of legislation that reinforce your responsibility as an owner or manager of a septic tank, including Building Regulations 2010, Public Health Act 1936 and DEFRA general binding rules for small sewage discharge into the ground.

Together, the law is simple. Anyone who owns or manages a septic tank is legally responsible for it, making sure it does not pollute watercourses, and that it is emptied and maintained regularly to prevent leaks or overflows from happening. Prosecution may result if you fail to adhere to these laws.

Where is my septic tank located?

Septic tanks are usually found in properties that are in rural locations that are far away from the main sewage lines. The tanks are dug into the ground, and so are not seen from the surface.

If you’re not sure where your septic tank is located, first check in with the previous owners or housing agency, or read any deeds or documents that you were given. You can also take a look outside to see if there are any lids in the ground. Bear in mind that they might be obscured by vegetation or soil. Also be aware that your septic tank may be shared with other properties.

How often should I empty a septic tank?

To keep your septic tank healthy, you should arrange for a professional to empty it at least once a year. Some tanks will require more frequent emptying depending on circumstances, so just check in with your septic tank expert for advice. Here at MPH Drain Services, we offer a professional tank emptying service to ensure your tank stays fully functional all year round.

How do I maintain a septic tank?

As mentioned in the previous point, the primary way to maintain a septic tank is to empty it on at least an annual basis.

You’ll also need to engage in regular visual inspections to ensure all parts of the septic tank and drain field are in good condition. Swampy or smelly conditions, or slow-moving drainage in your home, can all be indicators of an overflowing septic tank that needs correction.

Another key part of maintenance is to ensure that trees or shrubs are kept well away from your septic tank, as their roots can negatively impact the tank’s operation. It’s also wise to avoid driving over your soakaway and discourage others from doing so as well.

Also, be mindful of what you are putting into your drains. Cooking oils, grease, wipes, sanitary items, and other unsuitable substances for drains can negatively affect the efficacy of your septic tanks. Putting antibacterial products down your drain can also kill off the good bacteria in your tank. By being more attentive to the substances you’re allowing into your drains, you can preserve the health of the entire drainage system while also taking care of the wider environment.

Can rain affect a septic tank?

Yes, rain can affect a septic tank. And for those of us living in the UK, downpours are an unavoidable part of life. But how does rain affect a septic tank?

A septic tank comes with a drainage field whose role it is to filter the wastewater. This field-filtered water is then released into the soil. However, if rain is heavy, then this ability to release the clean water can be impeded leading to a backup of water in the septic tank. This may then cause it to overflow.

If a rainy season strikes, it might therefore be wise to try and limit your water usage or to get a drainage expert to advise if heavy rain is becoming a problem for your tank.

How to tell if your septic tank is overflowing

If you suspect that your drainage tank may be overflowing, there are a few signs you should look out for, including:

• Pooling water or impeded drainage in the drainage field
• Bad smells
• Grass that is uncannily vibrant or healthy in the vicinity
• Sluggish internal drainage, such as toilets slow to flush
• Septic tank needing to be emptied more often

While signs can point towards an issue, only a drainage expert can give an accurate assessment of the issue to diagnose and resolve any problems, so give them a call.

Searching for a septic tank expert in Yorkshire? Here at MPH Drain Services, we’ve been cleaning and emptying septic tanks in the local area for over 20 years. Known for affordable services and a large fleet of tankers at our disposal, you can depend on a swift and cost-effective service from our team. Simply get in touch for a free callout or to learn more about our septic tank services.

Call us 24/7 - Freephone 01977 802 283